Crossword Genius

How is learner working to become wise? (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

owlish

'wise?' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'how is learner working' is the wordplay.
'learner' becomes 'l'.
'working' is an anagram indicator.
'how'+'is'+'l'='howisl'
'howisl' anagrammed gives 'OWLISH'.

'to become' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for owlish that I've seen before include "Having appearance like wise old bird" , "Solemn, wise; like a bird" , "solemn and wise in appearance?" .)

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app